Wharfedale DX-3 5.1 Home Cinema Packing User Manual

: June 2, 2024
: Wharfedale

Table of Contents

Important safety information
Introduction
Power Connections
Positioning Your Loudspeakers
Wall Mounting Positions
Operation
Troubleshooting
Specifications
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Wharfedale DX-3 5.1 Home Cinema Packing User Manual

Important safety information

CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK)
NO USER REMOVEABLE PARTS INSIDE
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED PERSONNEL
ADVERTISSEMENT: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

This symbol indicates that there are important operating and maintenance instructions in the literature accompanying this unit.

This symbol indicated that dangerous voltage constituting a risk of electric shock is present within this unit.

Read these instructions

Keep these instructions

Heed all warnings

Follow all instructions

Do not use this apparatus near water.

Clean only with a dry cloth.

Do not block any ventilation openings.

Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Do no install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers

Do no install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wider blade or the third prong is provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched,
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles and the point they exit from the apparatus.

Use only attachments / accessories specified by the manufacturer.

Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for a long periods of time.

Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in anyway. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for a long periods of time.

Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in anyway,such as power-supply cord or a plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.

Warning: To reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture. The product must not be exposed to dripping and splashing and no object filled with liquid such as a vase of flowers should be placed on the product

No naked flame sources such as candles should be placed on the product.

Caution: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate this device.

Warning: The mains power switch for this appliance is located on the rear panel. To permit free access to this switch, the apparatus must be located in an open area without any obstructions.

Essential Information For UK Users
The power cord on your subwoofer maybe supplied with a plug incorporating a fuse, the value of which is indicated on the pin face of the plug. Should the fuse need to be replaced, an ASTA or BSI approved BS1362 fuse must be used of the same rating. If the plug is cut off it must NOT be re-used. Dispose of any such plug safely. There is a danger of electric shock if a cut-off plug is inserted into a mains socket. The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code: Blue – Neutral, Brown – Live.

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead may not correspond with the markings identifying the terminals in the replacement mains plug, proceed as follows:

The blue wire coloured Blue must be connected to the terminal marked with the letter ‘N’ or coloured black. The wire coloured brown must be connected to the terminal market with the letter ‘L’ or coloured red.

Class II construction double insulated. This product must not be connected to earth.

Before installing this product read all the instructions!

Before making any connections, switch all the units in your system off at the mains.

Make sure all connecting cables are safely routed. Do not run cables over unprotected floor areas route them around room boundaries if necessary.

Set the volume control at minimum when you switch on your system or change sources, and turn the level up gradually.

DO NOT use your amplifier at full volume.

Ensure that all loudspeakers in the system are correctly wired

DO NOT subject your loudspeakers to excessive cold, heat, humidity or sunlight.

DO NOT place heavy objects on top of loudspeakers

DO NOT connect speaker terminals to the mains supply

DO NOT dismantle the loudspeaker. There are no user serviceable parts inside and you will void the warranty.

Introduction

There are three DX-3 Packages Available
DX-351 System 4 x DX-3 Satellite Speakers, 1x DX-3 Centre Speaker, 1 x DX-3 Active Subwoofer
DX-350 Systerm: 4 x DX-3 Satellite Speakers, 1 xDX-3 Centre Speaker
DX-3 Satellite Pack 2x DX-3 Satellite Speakers (can be purchased additionally to create a 71 system!

Unpacking the speakers
Carefully remove each loudspeaker from its packing carton. Be especially careful when removing the polythene bag. DO NOT attempt to lift the loudspeaker by the polythene bag. When lifting the subwoofer from the carton, support it from the bottom The unit is heavy, if you cannot manage it easily, get someone to assist you.

Check each unit and in the event of damage contact your dealer.

Retain the packing for future use. If you decide to dispose of the packing, please do so with regard to any recycling regulations in your area.

Retain the instructions if you pass a product to a third party, please include the instructions
The DX-2 is compatible with most modern audio-visual equipment but a loudspeaker is only as good as the signal it gets Your amplifier should have ample reserves of power a low powered amplifier could easily run out of steam and the resulting distortion is unpleasant to listen to and could damage your speakers.

A larger amplifier will usually sound better and enhance the reliability and performance of your loudspeakers. Always turn down the volume if the music starts to sound distorted.

Power Connections

This subwoofer is factory set to operate from the mains voltage marked on the amplifier panel Before connecting check this voltage is correct for your mains supply
230 volt products-220 volts to 240 volts.
115 volt products-110 volts to 120 volts.

If you move to an area with a different mains supply, consult your Wharfedale dealer for advice.

Subwoofer rear panel connections

Power Indicator
Volume Control
Crossover Frequency Contol
Phase Switch
Auto Power Switch
Line Level Inputs/ Input
IEC Mains Input Socket
Mains Power Fuse
Mains Power Switch

To connect the Subwoofer to a standard Digital Home Theatre Processor/Amplifier you should purchase a single RCA phono lead.

The cable should be a high quality unit and well screened to avoid hum and noise problems.

The lead should be long enough to reach the subwoofer without being stretched taut. Your Wharfedale dealer will be pleased to supply you with a suitable cable.

Positioning Your Loudspeakers

Installation

Before connecting your system consider where you will place the speakers in the room Before making a final decision please experiment until you find the most suitable position

Positioning

Place the front speakers as shown Angling the speakers inward slightly will improve stereo images but too extreme an angle will impair movie sound.

The centre speaker can be placed above or below the TV Screen.

All the passive speakers are screened and may be placed close to a conventional CRT TV.

The surround speakers should be placed 400mm and 1.5mm above ear level and preferably on the side walls but always behind the listener. If the distance between the side walls is too great, you could use high stands to mound the surround loudspeakers.

If mounting the surrounds on the side walls is not feasible they may be mounted on the rear walls between 2.5-35 metres apart, central to the listening position and 400mm-1.5m above ear level

Place the subwoofer close to the wall, leaving just enough space to operate the controls and mains switch. Room positioning is not critical but we recommend that it is placed in the front of the listening seat.

Never operate the subwoofer within 450mm of a conventional TV, LCD and Plasma screens are unaffected. Ensure that there is a mains point close by.

The bass ports are rear mounted and move a lot of air, so make sure the back wall is sound. The subwoofer is front-firing.

Wall Mounting Positions

If you are wall mounting the centre and effects loudspeakers we recommend that they be mounted on suitable shelves fixed to the wall. Each DX-3 satellite speaker has a 14 inch (US norm) or M6 (EU norm) threaded insert on the back panel for use with universal wall mount brackets.

Multi-Channel Room Placement
The diagram shows the Dolby Labs recommend positions for multi-channel operation. For 5.1 channel operation use the satellites in the front and surround positions with the Subwoofer in the LFE position.

If you have a 7-channel processor/amplifier, you can enhance the system further by buying a pair of larger loudspeakers from the Wharfedale range to use as front-channel speakers and use the DX-3 satellite units as back/surround channels. Your Wharfedale dealer will be pleased to advise you.

The diagram shows the Dolby Labs recommended positions for multi-channel operation For 5.1 channel operation use the satellites in the front and surround positions with the Subwoofer in the LFE position If you have a 71 channel processor/ amplifier you can enhance the system further by buying one of the larger loudspeakers from the Wharfedale range to use as front channel speakers and use the satellite units as back channels. For further information please contact your authorised Wharfedale dealer or global distributor

Connecting The Passive Loudspeakers

You will need to purchase a suitable length of loudspeaker cable. You are advised to buy quality loudspeaker cable rather than low-cost ‘bell or ‘zip’ wire. You dealer will pleased to advise you
Connect the loudspeakers as shown in the connecting diagrams

Ensure that the red speaker terminal is wired to the red (+) amplifier output terminal and that the black speaker terminal is wired to the black (-) amplifier output terminal

It is convenient to the use the striped core to connect the positive RED terminals.

Standard System Connections
Your subwoofer has been designed for optimum performance with a digital processor. If your AV processor has a line level or LFE subwoofer output you should use this connection. You will need to purchase a single screen RCA phono lead from your dealer. Connect this lead to the left or right line input of the Subwoofer as shown.

Alternative Subwoofer connection
You may use a split mono lead from the processor to both inputs of the subwoofer. In this case the input level at the subwoofer will be slightly higher.

You may use a split mono lead from the processor to both inputs of the subwoofer. In this case the input level at the subwoofer will be slightly higher.

It is essential that you connect all the loudspeakers correctly with the striped core connected to the Positive (+) terminals and the plain core connected to the black (-) terminals in all cases. If one or more loudspeakers are incorrectly connected lout of phasel, the definition will be poor and the bass will be indistinct.

Operation

Setting Up The System

Set the subwoofer power switch to OFF
Turn the system Volume Control to Minimum
Re-check all system connections.
Connect the supplied subwoofer power lead to the IEC power socket on the subwoofer and connect the mains plug into the wall socket
Set the subwoofer volume control midway (12 o’clock)
Switch on the mains power

Fine Tuning
Switch on the subwoofer power switch. Check that the power indicator on the cabinet glows. Now switch on the system Play a programme with extended bass and set the system volume to a reasonable level. Adjust the subwoofer volume control to produce the desired level of bass

Phase Switch
If the bass is indistinct or lacks depth, the phase switch may need adjustment. Set the Switch to oº and listen carefully to some music with extend bass. If there is insufficient bass output set the phase switch to 180º Select the position which produces the most natural, extended bass

Low Pass Filter
This adjusts the blend between the subwoofer and the main speakers and enables you to set the system for optimum bass performance. The higher settings are for use with the supplied loudspeakers, the lower settings for large models. If you choose too low a setting with small speakers, there will be a ‘hole’ in the bass response: too high a setting with large speakers will result in the upper bass becoming bloated.

Auto Switch
In normal mode the subwoofer is permanently on. This may result in low level hum or noise if the rest of the system is switched off and the subwoofer is left switched on. Setting the AUTO switch on automatically turns the subwoofer on when a signal is detected at any of the inputs and turns it off (Standby Model after a period of inactivity.

in AUTO mode the indicator on the subwoofer will always be illuminated even when in Standby to show the unit is still powered If your subwoofer is disconnected from the mains or the power switch is ‘Off, the indicator will tum off. When the system is not in use for extended periods, we suggest you switch off the subwoofer to protect it from switching noises caused by domestic appliances, etc.

Home Theatre Topics
As the ear is unable to detect the direction from which deep bass originates, this allows freedom in positioning the subwoofer. Varying the distance from the wall alters the amount of bass. Some prefer to place the subwoofer against a room corner. This arrangement gives more bass at the possible expense of clarity.

Loudspeaker Sizes
Many digital AV processers require you to specify the size of speakers in the various channels These are usually Large or Small We recommend that you set the front centre and surround speakers to Small This will direct all the bass in the system to the subwoofer and provide a clean, deep and louder bass.

Set the Subwoofer option on the processor to On’ or ‘Yes

Setting Levels
Once the loudspeaker settings have been finalised. put the AV amplifier into its Test mode (see your processor instructions). Adjust the levels until all channels are equally loud
You may need to adjust the subwoofer output level. Avoid setting too high a level or you will swamp the sound with bass which is tiring to listen to and may limit the subwoofer’s ability to respond to large bass transients. Set a sensible level going into the subwoofer. The subwoofer volume control should be between 12 o’clock and 3 o’clock.

LFE
The Low Frequency Effects channel was designed as an additional bass channel with its own dedicated subwoofer. in practice however, if all the speakers are set to small the LFE channel will be combined with the bass from other charinelsi and all this feeds into the subwoofer. When you set the LFE level from your AV processor, use care with this setting as the LFE channel may contain powerful low frequencies which, although normal in a cinema, may overload a domestic subwoofer.

If. during a programme, you hear popping or thumping noises coming from the subwoofer, immediately turn the AV Processor’s volume level down and then reduce the LFE level. If this does not cure the problem, reduce the volume level at the subwoofer

Please read the relevant sections of your AV amplifier manual and familiarise yourself with the
various issues. If you are unsure, consult your dealer or global distributor for advice.

Troubleshooting

Before investigating a problem, always switch off the system at the mains.

Symptom	Possible Cause
No Sound	System not switched on; Speaker cables shorting out terminals: Wrong

source selected
Sound lacks bass content Bass reproduction indistinct| Front loudspeakers out of phase. Check all system connections and rectify. Subwoofer not switched on; Subwoofer phase incorrect: Subwoofer crossover control too low.
Excessive bass distortion at Low volumes| Subwoofer Level set too high: LFE Level set too high: Subwoofer incorrectly wired
Excessive or distorted bass at high levels| System Level set too high; bass control set too high: Speakers too close to room corners
Distorted / rattling sounds at high Levels| System level set too high; Objects on speakers / subwoofer; Objects too close to subwoofer
Popping or thumping from the subwoofer| System level set high; Subwoofer Level set too high: LFE level set too high
Indistinct sound: Poor localisation of effects. Poor localisation of dialogue| One or more Loudspeakers are out of phase. Check all system connections and rectify (Refer to the manual for the correct wiring procedure.

Looking After Your Loudspeaker

Your loudspeakers use special hardwearing sealed finish, They should not be waxed or treated with spray polishes which will smear and dim the finish. Occasionally polish them with a dry or barely moist cloth to remove dust and finger marks, etc.
If you play the speakers with the grilles off exercise great care. NEVER operate speakers with the grilles off if there are children or pets in the house.
Occasionally, remove the loudspeaker grilles and brush them gently with a soft brush before replacing them carefully.
We advise that you do not use a vacuum cleaner to clean loudspeaker grilles.
We advise that you do not place anything on your loudspeakers to prevent damage to the cabinet surface.
Avoid getting any liquid behind the grille. If you spill liquid on your loudspeakers, take them to your dealer for attention before using them again.
DO NOT open the speakers, there are no user serviceable parts insidev
NEVER touch the drive units either with an object or your hands,

Warranty Coverage
Your loudspeakers have been constructed to the highest standards. From top grade furniture construction and finish to carefully designed and selected acoustic components, Wharfedale speakers are built to provide a lifetime of sonic pleasure. We hope you will derive many years of good service from our products..

Wharfedale warrants its products, subject to the following terms and conditions below, to be free from defects in materials and workmanship

Online Registration

Scan the OR code using a smart-phone device. for product warranty registration online.
The three (3) year extended warranty is applicable to items purchased from Jan 1st 2021. onwards, Items purchased prior to this date are not eligible for this extended warranty service but are subject to statutory warranty claims and all applicable consumer rights.
To qualify for the extended 3 year warranty, you must register your product within ninety (90) calendar days from the date of purchase. Visit wharfedale.co.uk/warranty-registration/to complete your online registration, Items not registered online will have a Limited Warranty for one (1) year, or for the period of your country’s statutory warranty, whichever is longer.
This Limited Warranty is non-transferable and is offered exclusively to the original owner,
This Limited Warranty is valid only in the original country of purchase.
Repairs or replacements are provided under this warranty are the exclusive remedy of the consumer.
Wharfedale shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages for breach of any expenses or implied warranty with any product. Except to the extent prohibited by law, this warranty is exclusive and in lieu of all other warranties whatsoever. both expressed and implied including but not limited to the warrant of merchantability and fitness for practical purpose.
This warranty provides benefits that are additional to and do not affect your statutory consumer rights.
This Limited Warranty offer is subject to correct information being submitted in your application. Incorrect dates or mismatched purchase receipt dates that are outside of thewarranty terms will immediately invalidate any warranty claim
- “Please check with your dealer local distributor for further information.

Exclusions
The following items are excluded from the Wharfedale warranty

Normal wear and tear and cosmetic damage including but not limited to any wear from reasonable use. environmental deterioration or neglect
Products on which the serial number has been removed altered or otherwise made illegible.
Products not purchased from an authorised Wharfedale dealer.
Products that were not new at the time of original purchase.
Products sold as is as seen or ‘with faults.
Product not purchased from an Authorised Dealer/Distributor within the region of the claim lie parallel imports or grey market products)
Accidental damage or faults caused by commercial use, acts of God incorrect installation, incorrect connection. incorrect packaging misuse or careless operation or handling which is not in accordance with the user instructions.
Equipment that has been operated in conjunction with unsuitable, inappropriate or fautty apparatus.
Repairs, alterations or modifications carried out by parties other than Wharfedale or its authorised service partners.
Damage in transit that cannot be attributable to the fault of Wharfedale, the authorised distributor or dealer (ie, claims otherwise covered by transit insurance.
Faults relating to abnormal or inappropriate power supply voltage or power surges.
Faults relating to extremities in temperature, exposure to heat, water or other liquids, insects, excessive moisture sand, chemicals, battery leakage or any other contaminants.
Any force majeure events, including but not limited to any acts of God, fire, lightning, typhoon, storm, earthquake, hurricane, natural disaster, tsunami, flood, war, riot, public disturbance,
Any other causes beyond the reasonable control of either Wharfedale and its Authorised Distributor.

How to Claim

To obtain warranty service please contact the authorised dealer from which you purchased this product and present the limited warranty certificate offered upon registration of your product’s extended warranty offer.
Do not dispatch goods without the prior agreement of the dealer distributor or authorised service centre.
If asked to return products for inspection and or repair, please pack carefully preferably in the original carton or packaging affording an equal degree of protection and returned via insured. trackable courier service
The authorised dealer or distributor will offer full retum details and instructions. However, please note if unsuitable packaging is used the warranty may be deemed void due to improper action in returns
Wharfedale or the authorised distributor, dealer or service centre may make a charge for the supply of new packaging for the return of the repaired items. Please note, insurance is recommended as goods are returned at the owner’s risk
Authorised distributors or service centres can not be held liable for loss or damage in transit, insurance and freight charges on the return jourmey will be paid for by Wharfedale, authorised dealer, distributor or service centre if corrective work proves to be necessary.
In the event of ‘no-fault found or ‘no repair necessary, the return shipping charge will be the responsibility of the owner.

Repairs

All repairs will be carried out by the appointed distributor (or locally appointed service centrel, Repairs handled or processed without authorisation or approval of the appointed representative will be excluded from this limited waranty. Please note, Wharfedale is not able to supply parts or replacement items to any other entity than the official distributor or authonsed service centre.
Other than the warranty and services set out in this warranty, to the fullest extent permitted by law, Wharfedale shall not be liable to you and/or any third party or entity whatsoever for
Any loss, damages and/or malfunction caused to any productis) which is/are connected to any of the products covered by this warranty.
Any damages loss and liability, whether direct, indirect, incidental, consequential special, punitive or otherwise howsoever caused by arising out of or otherwise, in relation to the installation, delivery, use, service, repair. replacement and/or maintenance of the product.
Any damages, loss and liability under this warranty in respect of any act omission, or negligence of any of their technicians, employees, agents, representatives or independent contractors relating to the actual or purported performance of any of the obligations under this warranty.

Service Centre Address
For technical support, servicing or product queries and information please contact either your local retailer or the office below.
JAG Service Dept. 13/14 Glebe Road Huntingdon. Cambridgeshire.
PE29 70L. UK.
Tel. +44(0/1480 452551
Email serviceawharfedale.co.uk
For information on other authorised service centres worldwide contact Wharfedale International UK

Specifications

Model•	DX-3 Stereo	DX-3 Centre
General description	2-Way Closed Box Bookshelf Speaker	2-Way Aperiodic

Model| DX-3 Subwoofer|
---|---|---
Generaldescription| ACING Dynamic-Drive IB subwoofer system|
Bass driver| 8′ (200mm) Woven Polypropylene cone|
Amplifier Power Output| 70W|
Peak Power Output| 150W|
Line Input Sensitivity| roomy for maximum output|
Crossover Range| 40Hz – 150Hz|
Inputs| ‘2 x RCA Phono. LFE Line-in RCA’|
Input Impedance| Line In IOW|
| LFE sk0|
Signal-to-noise ratio (S/N)| 285d13|
Avg. Max Output aiwn| 105dB|
Features| tow pass filter slope adjustment Phase inversionAuto on-off|
Dimensions (mm)| |
Height (on plinth)| zg8 (•301mm|
Width| 268mm|
Depth (with terminals/grille)| 300 •221mm|
Net weight| 7.84|
Finish| Black oak / Walnut|
| |